7 Most Common Swimming Pool Problems and Solutions

From tranquil retreat to aquatic headache, owning a swimming pool can sometimes feel like a balancing act between paradise and problems. In this comprehensive guide, we’re about to turn the tide. We’ll  navigate you to the choppy waters of common pool predicaments, unveiling savvy solutions to transform your aquatic oasis into the serene, sparkling haven you’ve always dreamed of.

Swimming pools bring up several issues that require quick attention and fixes to guarantee a safe and enjoyable swimming experience, swimming pools can be a never-ending source of pleasure. The pH range for pool water should be 7.2 to 7.6. If the pH is either above or below this range, pool users’ eyes, throats, and skin will get irritated. The pH level of the pool is found during testing, and it can be adjusted with pool chemicals as needed.

I hope you’re beginning to realize how crucial it is to test often. When people leave your pool complaining that their eyes and skin burn and get red, that is the last thing you want to happen. Now, I am going to talk about common swimming pool problems and solutions.

Common Problems Occur in a Swimming Pool

1. Algae Growth

The color of a pool should be clear blue. It may be greener and you may see the growth of algae if it’s unhealthy. It’s uncomfortable and swimmable as a result.

If you see that it’s green, it might have an algae infection, which is one of the most typical issues that pool owners deal with. 

Usually, this indicates that the pool’s chlorine content is inadequate. Engage a pool specialist if you become aware of this problem. Restore the swim ability of your pool by performing the necessary maintenance to remove the algae. You can take a look at these best chlorine tablets to resolve the issues. 

2. Excessive Chlorine

Algae and other microorganisms are effectively kept out of pools by chlorine. However, moderation is key, just like with anything else. Skin and eye discomfort can result from excessive chlorine exposure. 

Seeing underwater, which is one of the best things about swimming in the first place, can sometimes become challenging. With the right equipment, you can measure the chlorine content of your pool, or you may have a professional come out and take a look.

3. Stain

Stains on your swimming pool’s floor or wall might occur for a few distinct causes. If they are brown, metals like iron or manganese may be present in your water source. 

As soon as the stains start to show, brush them out and make necessary pH and alkalinity adjustments. By doing this, metal levels will remain low and discoloration will not occur again. Use a metal stain remover if the stains are especially tenacious or have been there for a long time.

Organic stains such as algae, leaves, berries, and insects can be removed with a brush and a little chlorine spray, if necessary. Should the stains be extensive, shock your pool, scrub the stains, and then run the water for at least eight hours.

4. Scaling

Have you observed deposits in or around your pool that are like sandpaper? You have scaling if that is the case. When the calcium content of your pool water is excessive, this can occur. High calcium hardness has the potential to harm the filter, clog pipes, and erode your pool’s shell over time. 

Furthermore, when you enter and exit the pool, the sharp edges of the scaling may rip your skin. Check your calcium hardness levels to find a solution to this issue. Use a flocculent to group the particles if their concentration exceeds 400 parts per million so that the pool can be swept clean. Next, until they are once again balanced, add water or apply Calcium down.

However, what steps do you take regarding the existing scale? You do, have two choices. The first is a metal or calcium remover. Follow the product’s directions and ask your pool store for recommendations. 

The type you use will depend on the surface of the pool. The type of deposits—calcium silicate, which is grey, or calcium carbonate, which is white—will determine the outcome. Removing the first is simple, but getting rid of the second can be more difficult. 

In either case, you’ll have to scrub down. You might need to drain your pool and have the surface acid cleaned if the scaling is too severe or if you’re not satisfied with the outcome.

5. Leaks

Your pool may be experiencing a leak if the water level is dropping (and it’s not from regular evaporation). This could occur for a few different causes. You can have a plumbing problem, for instance, if you see water traces or puddles outside the pool. 

Check your equipment to make sure there are no broken pipes or loose fittings. If you’re not sure, have a licensed plumber inspect the equipment. Gaps surrounding your lighting fixtures are another major source of leakage. 

Pool water leakage may occur when the conduit pipe breaks away from the niche. Use caulk, silicone, or pool putty to seal the gaps to solve this problem.

Cracks in a concrete pool might occur from improper installation, shifting ground, or structural problems. If they’re big, ask your installer or give a pool expert a call for guidance. Don’t panic, though, if you have small cracks, also called crazing. 

The natural expansion and contraction of the cement is what causes crazing. Although these cracks typically don’t leak, monitor them in case they enlarge and cause problems.

6. Clogged Filter

In your swimming pool, your filter is in charge of eliminating bacteria, dirt, and other pollutants. Most likely, you have a blocked filter if it only operates for a short period or if your water is murky. The most easily cleaned filters are cartridge ones. Simply unscrew the filter top, take out the cartridge, and give it a thorough rinse. 

To ensure a more comprehensive cleaning, immerse it in a filter cleaner for a whole night. To eliminate any muck or leaves trapped inside media filters, use the backwash setting to direct the water flow in the opposite direction. 

Replacing your media can be necessary if, even after backwashing for a short while, the water is still unclean. You may find these pool filters useful. 

7. Technical Issues

Problems with your pool pump are common as the pool needs technical equipment to be kept clean and safe to use. To keep the pump operating well and to repair valves, barriers, and other components, it is best to locate swimming pool contractors in Alpharetta. 

It’s also a good idea to contact a professional rather than attempting to remedy any issues you may be having with the air relief valve backwash or caulking. The investment value of your pool is too great to jeopardize with do-it-yourself repairs.

Solutions to Common Pool Problems

1. Maintain the Blue Color

Algal development, which turns your pool green and ruins your swimming experience, is one of the most frequent pool issues. Fortunately, there are efficient shock therapies to address this.

2. Shocking Your Pool 

During the swimming season, you should shock-treat your pool once a week to get rid of germs, algae, and other impurities. 

Shock treatment once a week will remove 90% of the most typical pool issues! Poolife suggests, if at all feasible, shocking at the same time and on the same day every week. It is best to shock your pool after the sun goes down because chlorine can do its job without being affected by the sun’s strong UV radiation. 

3. Regulating the pH Level 

Pool issues are often caused by uneven pH levels. It is necessary to regularly monitor the pH of the pool. 

Chemical balancing must be added when pH levels deviate from the advised range. Whereas sodium bisulfate lowers pH levels, sodium carbonate raises them. A tranquil swimming pool is guaranteed by keeping the pH between 7.2 and 7.8. Take a look at these high-quality pH meters for your swimming pool.

4. Filter Cleaning

Even with acceptable chemical levels, a dirty filter, which can also drastically affect water circulation, can cause a green or hazy pool. 

A slow pump that fails to perform its function can result from millions of microscopic particles adhering to the filter as water flows through it. Be aware that filters come in a variety of forms and that each has a special cleaning procedure.

5. Brushing

Brushing the walls of your pool will help get rid of some of the debris and accumulation that gets stuck to the fiberglass or porous concrete. Every week, you should do this chore before vacuuming. The particles will settle to the bottom to be vacuumed after you’ve brushed the surfaces. To resolve the issues effectively, you can utilize a robotic pool cleaner. Here are some of the best robotic pool cleaners we have reviewed. 

6. Maintain Water Level

Pools lose water due to usage and evaporation. Since this can harm the pump, water levels shouldn’t be permitted to drop below the skimmer intake tubes. 

The simplest technique to replenish the pool is to just run a garden hose into the water for a little while. Before you do so, be sure to verify your local water regulations.

Conclusions

Whether your pool is plagued with calcium scale, algae blooms, or murky water, it can be easy to become alarmed when something goes wrong. Effective pool maintenance, however, requires prompt problem identification, appropriate remedy implementation, and prevention (or at least minimization) of future occurrences. 

A weekly maintenance schedule, frequent debris removal, pool cover use, maintaining a balanced pH, cleaning and replacing your filter, and avoiding the use of skin care products in your pool are all ways to help achieve this. 

You’ll spend less time worrying and more time swimming if you abide by these straightforward guidelines about swimming pool problems and solutions.